1972 BMW R75/5 Serial number 298572 5723km on... Lot 24

1972 BMW R75/5 Serial number 298572 5723km on the odometer German registration document ERRATUM: Swiss registration document (cleared through customs but without German customs certificate) 4 000 / 7 000 € The R75/5 was presented with the entire 5 series at the end of August 1969. This new range comprises the R50/5, the R60/5 and the top-of-the-range R75/5. These new models were equipped with an all-new engine. This engine was designed in 750, and then made available in lower displacements by reducing the bore. The crankshaft is forged in one piece, unlike the stamped one on the R69S, and runs on plain bearings. The connecting rods are now removable. The camshaft is now positioned under the crankshaft and driven by a Duplex chain. At the rear of the camshaft is the new Eaton-type oil pump, enabling the installation of plain bearings. Light-alloy cylinders replace the cast-iron cylinders of the R69S. Carburetors are still cup-type for the R50/5 and R60/5, and vacuum-type for the R75/5. A starter motor is fitted above the engine block. The kick is still there, of course, to reassure skeptics. The gearbox is still a 4-speed, but the ratios and selection have been improved compared to the R69S. On the chassis side, there are also major changes. The Earles fork has been replaced by a hydraulic telescopic fork, an improved version of the R69 US. The rear end abandons the frame-loop system for a more conventional oscillating suspension system at the upper shock mountings. Plastic also makes an appearance for the mudguards. The fuel tank remains in sheet metal. The R75/5 was available in a range of colors, in contrast to the R69S, which was available in black or optional white. For the 1971 model year, a turn signal indicator appeared on the dashboard. It wasn't until the end of 1972 that the 5 Series underwent more extensive modifications. The swingarm was lengthened by 5 cm, both to reduce steering effort and to accommodate a higher-capacity battery for the electric starter (optional for this model). The flywheel is lightened to improve revs, the rear rim is widened (WM2 to WM3), the side stand features an automatic folding system, and the fuel tank is now 17 liters with chrome sides. The 24-liter tank with knee grips remains available as an option. Production of the R75/5 was discontinued at the end of 1973 after 38,370 units. The bike is in good condition, and will only need to be restarted for technical inspection.